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How can I fit in as an adult learner?

Becoming founder of a club at your college—even as an adult—might make your resume sparkle and your college experience more memorable

By Sean-Michael Green, 8/17/09

If you cannot find an extracurricular organization that fits your interests, you can start your own group on campus. You may want to start an organization for nontraditional students, or perhaps for students who are also parents. Different colleges and universities have different systems for starting student organizations, but almost every school has a system that shares certain steps.

1. Find some founding members
   One student does not a group make. Talk with peers in your classes about your idea. Post some information and hold an informational session where you share your idea for a new group. Collect attendance sheets or petition signatures to demonstrate to the school the appeal of the new organization.

2. Decide what your group will do
   How often will your club meet? What will be the purpose of the group? How much money will it need to fund what activities? By discussing the group with other interested people, you will be able to create a short document outlining the details of your proposed organization.
3. Find a faculty supporter
   Ask a professor to serve as a faculty sponsor. The professor may have questions about how much of a commitment will be required. You will find, however, that many professors are willing to sponsor well-considered groups.
4. Present your organization for funding
   The next step is to present this information to the decision makers at your school to create a formal group eligible for funding. You may need to present the information to the student government, the dean of students, or another committee set up to create new groups.

   Once your group is recognized, all that is left is to conduct the business of the new organization.

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